Navigating Toward Your Next Degree & Other Opportunities

Why Young Alumni Chose to Attend Graduate or Professional School

“I didn’t want to further pursue what I did during my undergraduate years (I got a bachelor’s degree in geological sciences) because of the stress I endured to complete the major in two years, so I decided to change directions by getting in geospatial information sciences at UT Dallas.” –Rory-Stefan A. ’15, Master of Science, University of Texas at Dallas

“I chose to attend graduate school because I still have a strong desire to spend my time learning and I wanted to strengthen both my career and educational background.” –Michaela K. ’15, Master of Science, Johns Hopkins University

“I wanted to become certified to teach in New York, as well as perfect my craft.” –Monique J. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester

“I want to be able to be as knowledgeable as possible in the industry I enter. I want to represent myself in the best way I know how.” –Morgan P. ’15, Master of Business Administration, University of Massachusetts Amherst

“I needed an advanced degree to do the kinds of jobs I’m interested in.” –Nahoma P. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester

“I always enjoyed doing research and advancing knowledge, so I decided to pursue a research-focused degree before I go out in the industry. I also believe that the skills you acquire by continuing your education will give you higher earnings, higher ceiling, and more opportunities in your career.” –Ioannis Z. ’14, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Bristol

“I will be certified to teach Middle School Math in June of 2017. However, I plan to become an elementary school teacher and intend to do so by pursuing an MAT while continuing to teach.” –Alesa Y. ’15, Master of Arts, Undecided

“I sought a community-based medical school that had a warm student body and administration. I found all this and much more at WSU BSOM.” –Ben W. ’15, Doctor of Medicine, Wright State University

“To remain competitive in the job market, network, and to apply skills from the classroom and industry to one another.” –Lauren K. ’15, Master of Business Administration

“Given the state of the job market, I decided that attending a prestigious graduate program was a better investment for my future career than working a low-paying entry level job for a few years.” –Brianna I. ’15, Master of Public Health, Columbia University

“To further my career in research using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study children with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Very few researchers in cognitive science are currently using fMRI to study ASDs, and it is a gap in the field that I would like to help fill.” –Mary Abbe R. ’13, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Texas at Austin

“While at UR I developed a (surprisingly) strong interest in research, which I committed myself to exploring further in graduate training. Doing so reinforced my interest in a research career and gave me the skills for it.” –Casey L. ’09, Doctor of Philosophy, Drexel University

“A graduate degree is very valuable in engineering and I got a scholarship to stay at UR.”–Dan B. ’07, Masters of Engineering, University of Rochester

“The program I chose was taught by professors who had been in my profession (government) for years. To me, this institutional knowledge was a critical component to choosing to attend graduate school. The classroom experience and theoretical knowledge was great, but I knew that a master’s program would provide me the on-the-ground, real life knowledge necessary to excel in my career.” –Jonathan A. ’09, Master of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs, George Washington University

“I realized that I had a passion for history and I wanted to share that passion with others. I don’t think you can go into grad school, especially for humanities, with the expectation that you will end up with a job. It is a time to devote yourself completely to one very specific topic. There are not a lot of people who are in a circumstance where that level of study is possible, and for me it has been an amazing opportunity.” –Douglas B. ’10, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Missouri, Columbia

“I felt that it was necessary in order to give me a competitive advantage in the workforce.”–Anonymous, Master of Business Administration, Simon School of Business

“I chose to go to medical school as I was interested in biology and caring for people.”–Katrina B. ’08, Doctor of Medicine, New York Medical College

“I found a program in live entertainment management which is exactly what I wanted to pursue. It was a great opportunity to gain exposure to the industry while attaining an advanced degree at the same time.” –David L. ’09, Master of Arts, University of Miami

“Nursing is an amazing field! I knew that I wanted to be a Family Nurse Practitioner prior to earning my Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) in UR’s School of Nursing accelerated BSN program.” –Elizabeth S. ’11, Masters in Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing

“I started taking public health courses partially because my company had a tuition reimbursement program. I ended up enjoying the classes and enrolled in the part-time program while still working full-time.” –Anonymous, Master of Public Health, Boston University

“I enjoy learning. Plus, the fields I want to work in require graduate degrees and advanced licenses.” –Elizabeth C. ’08, Masters in Nursing, University of Rochester, and Masters in Mental Health Counseling, St. John Fisher College

“I want to be the first person in my family to get a doctorate; my M.A. program is the first step toward that goal.” –Dan G. ’14, Master of Arts, Villanova University

“To become more focused in my career in international trade and business development.” –Abigail H. ’07, Master of Science, International University in Geneva

“I decided that getting my Master of Fine Arts degree would be the next step in my professional career as an artist. Being in a graduate program helped me network, grow in my studio practice, and give me the terminal degree I needed to teach at the college level.”–Madeleine C. ’08, Master of Fine Arts, Maryland Institute College of Art

“In order to make a transition to the civilian world which will allow me to have similar and increasing levels of responsibility than I currently have.” –Dan L. ’07, Master of Business Administration, Dartmouth College Tuck School of Business

“After seven years in the workforce, I’ve taught myself a lot. I’m going back for my MBA so that I can have a formal foundation in business best practices while drawing on my work experiences.” –Alexander P. ’07, Master of Business Administration

“Within the sciences and engineering, developing completely new approaches to solving a variety of problems, in fields such as efficient lighting, polymeric design and synthesis, and surfactants, requires a depth and breadth of study you can only obtain at the MS and PhD levels. So, in order to become an independent researcher who may influence the direction of your field, you often need the PhD degree.” –Guy M. ’10, Doctor of Philosophy, Case Western Reserve University

“I chose to attend graduate school because I wanted to gain additional research experience and learn even more about my field of study. Undergraduate coursework and research helped me build a broad background in biomedical engineering, while graduate school has given me the opportunity to study bone bioengineering specifically through research projects.” –Andrea M. ’12, Doctor of Philosophy, Columbia University

“At UR, I was part of the McNair program which is interested in increasing the number of underrepresented minorities receiving doctoral degrees. Thanks to the mentorship and guidance that this program gave me, I was able to get into two PhD programs fully funded. I was even given extra grant money.” –Michael C. ’07, Master of Arts, Texas A&M University

“I had been working in education for a few years and I realized the classroom wasn’t the perfect fit for me. However, I had noticed that there was a huge need for strong operations in a school system to make it run well. I wanted to become that per- son—someone who can make a school run smoothly and allow principals and teachers to focus on their students’ education. For me, getting an MBA was going to give me the business and operations skills that I needed to obtain a job in that area.” –Bobby S. ’08, Master of Business Administration, George Washington University

“For two reasons: First, because I wanted a job in academia and a PhD would bring me closer to that career goal. Second, because I love learning.” –Caitlin C. ’11, Doctor of Philosophy, UC Irvine

“Important to know, but I knew this at the time: cost of graduate school! At the end of the day, you end up with whatever degree you’re trying to get. Factor in tuition, in state vs. out of state. The difference will be tens of thousands of dollars and years of paying off more student loans or not.” –Lindsay W. ’10, Master of Science, Towson University

“When applying to PhD programs, your advisor is more important than the institution. A bad advisor at your dream school will make the next 4+ years much harder.”–David A. ’10, Doctor of Philosophy, Purdue University

“I wish I had known how vital it is to contact prospective Principal Investigators at the institutions you’re applying to. That can make or break an application.”–Alberto S. ’14, Doctor of Philosophy, Georgetown University

“How much work it requires.” –Rafael B. ’14, Master of Science in Accounting, Simon Business School

“Find out as much as you can about the actual career opportunities available with a degree. The legal field is not exactly what anyone thought it was going to be when they went into it, including myself and my father who attended Pitt Law.” –Lauren R. ’10, Doctor of Law, University of Pittsburgh

“It’s important to be realistic about what a graduate degree will do for you. Graduate school is difficult and time-consuming; if you are just applying to forestall the ‘real world,’ you will be miserable. A graduate degree should be a stepping stone to a career you could not otherwise attain, not just a back-up option if jobs fall through.” –Caitlin C. ’11, Doctor of Philosophy, UC Irvine

“Plan as far ahead as you can as soon as you can – it’s easier to adapt an existing plan as your interests and circumstances change than it is to create a plan when you really need one.” –Matt A. ’16, Engineering

“I wanted to further my skills and knowledge to become a better researcher. I also wanted to start a job at a higher level than just an entry level position. My master’s degree has allowed me to do that.” –Kelsey S. ’16, Health Care, Non-Medical

“I believe to progress in the business world and reach the point of leading an organization, the easiest way to move up is by getting a higher degree.” –Elias D. ’16, Information Technology

“I wanted to advance my understanding of the biology of aging beyond my undergraduate career through research. I figured, “Why go to medical school and save thousands of lives,” when a big breakthrough in medical research can save more.” –Amy E. ’16, Science/Research

“I initially began a program for a doctorate degree. After one semester, I learned that the program wasn’t going to help me toward my career goals, so I decided not to continue school and began looking for a job. I felt like a failure and like I was letting everyone down, but this was the right decision for me. Now I am hoping to gain more experience in my field and reapply in a few years, so I can be more competitive and get accepted to some of the schools I previously didn’t get into.” –Morgan K. ’16, Science/Research

“I wanted the luxury of making playwriting my primary focus. I saw a funded graduate program as a way to have both time and structure to improve my writing. I’m also interested in teaching creative writing, which I can do with an MFA.” –Katherine V. ’15

“My goal is to attend medical school, but I’m currently getting more experience in the research side first.” –Teresa R. ’16, Medicine

“My passion for nursing lead me to pursue an accelerated second-degree program after graduating from Rochester. I was able to complete my prerequisite coursework at Rochester and successfully transition to nursing school.” –Jessica R. ’16, Nursing

What Young Alumni Wish They Had Known Before Applying

“I wish I had surveyed more schools.” –Michaela K. ’15, Master of Science, Johns Hopkins University

“You learn a lot more in the job, and you will face the same administrative frustrations as an undergraduate.” –Isabella T.V. ’14, Master of Business Administration, University of Rochester

“I wish that I had spaced out my program of study so that I could enjoy the learning instead of cramming.” –Monique J. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester

“Don’t rush into grad school if you’re not sure you’re ready.” –Nahoma P. ’15, Master of Science, University of Rochester

“Graduate school is so very different than undergrad in so many ways that you do not expect.” –Ioannis Z. ’14, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Bristol

“The application process is the same as undergrad. It feels a lot scarier, but really it’s the same, just different requirements. You got into undergrad; you can get into graduate school, too.” –Patricia C. ’15, Master of Arts, Gallaudet University

“Everyone here has killer test scores and impressive resumes, so don’t think that yours will guarantee your merit aid. You’re looking at a lot of unsubsidized loans, so make sure it’s an investment that will pay off.” –Brianna I. ’15, Master of Public Health, Columbia University

“If you want to go to law school, be sure you want to go to law school. It can be a miserable place, even if you want to be there. If you need time to decide, take that time. A lot of people take time off after college.” –Jason S. ’10, Juris Doctorate, New York University School of Law

“I wish I had shadowed more physicians and talked with more medical students and residents to have a better idea of what physicians actually do.” –Katrina B. ’08, Doctor of Medicine, New York Medical College

“It is always said that applying to graduate school is competitive, and I wish I had known what ‘competitive’ actually meant. Having been on both sides of the graduate school application process, I have been surprised at how the final decisions are made. My advice is this: grades matter, scores matter, and research experience matters, but equally (if not more) important is your passion for the topic, your commitment, and your ability to articulate both!” –Casey L. ’09, Doctor of Philosophy, Drexel University

“Apply to graduate assistantships and research assistantships. There are so many opportunities that will pay for you to go to grad school; take advantage of them! I am currently a graduate assistant and get free tuition. This makes all the difference.”–Lindsay W. ’10, Master of Science, Towson University

“Work experience in nursing is invaluable prior to graduate school, although not required. I recommend at least completing your new employee orientation program prior to going back to school. Unlike my colleagues who have not worked as a nurse, I have practical experiences that allow me to critically think about material presented in class. Similarly, I have a greater understanding of how to problem-solve financial and psychosocial barriers to patient care.” –Elizabeth S. ’11, Masters in Nursing, Columbia University School of Nursing

“Don’t ignore how expensive the application process will be. There are a lot of unforeseen costs like mailing supplemental applications, recommendations, travel for interviews, lodging for interviews, and preparation for admissions exams, in addition to the actual costs of admissions exams. Start saving early.” –Leah P. ’12, Doctor of Dentistry, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine

“Post-graduate school is not the same as undergraduate school in a lot of ways. You are truly on your own for the first time, and you may not make the same kinds of friends as you have in other stages of life. You might feel a little isolated, but the good grades and internship experience will be worth it. You come out with a sense of professionalism and accomplishment.” –Diana D. ’08, Master of Business Administration, University at Buffalo

“Get your employer to pay for it.” –Adrienne W. ’11

“Don’t trust all of the course offerings that are listed on a program or school’s website. If you are interested in a particular set of classes, call the school and ask when they were last offered, or look at online syllabi to find out. Some of the classes that sold me on the school I went to ultimately weren’t offered in the time I was there.” –Jonathan A. ’09, Master of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs, George Washington University

“I wish I had known concretely what my career goals were. They continued to change as I took various classes in law school, and it might have been possible to solidify my goals further by working in a wide variety of jobs or internships before dedicating myself to a specific program.” –Anonymous, Juris Doctorate

“From my experience and that of my peers, do as much research as you can about different programs, but realize schools are selling you on a program and it’s normal for things to be different than what you were expecting.” –Madeleine C. ’08, Master of Fine Arts, Maryland Institute College of Art

“I wish I had known earlier that it is more about the journey than the grades (at least it was for the graduate programs I attended). Thoughtful, passionate inquiry is more important than ‘being right.’” –Elizabeth C. ’08, Masters in Nursing, University of Rochester and Masters in Mental Health Counseling, St. John Fisher College

“Think about the cost and your projected career salary. As someone who chose a big name school but ultimately desires to work in a low paying field, I sometimes question if the big name of Northwestern was worth the cost.” –Anonymous, Master of Arts, Northwestern University

“Accurate employment and salary statistics. The legal field has undergone a serious shift since the 2008 crash and, as of my writing, has not recovered in a meaningful way.”–Gregory M. ’08, Juris Doctorate, American University Washington College of Law

“Get some experience in the field prior to going to graduate school. Graduate school will help you in your work, and your work will help you in graduate school.” –Anonymous, Master of Arts

“It’s harder to get back into school mode after working for a while.” –Angie S. ’11, Doctor of Philosophy

“I wish I had a better concept of a manageable workload/class-time when selecting a program. In this program, classes run 6:25-10pm. I am often tired during the work week. Also, I wish I had spent more time researching whether the institute had an updated curriculum.” –Victoria V. ’10, Master of Business Administration, University of Maryland

“If applying for an MBA, you should begin the application process by creating a narrative for yourself that covers where you’re coming from, why an MBA, why that specific school, and what you will do with it 5-10 years later. This will help you stay focused when choosing schools, writing your essays and completing the application.” –Alexander P. ’07, Master of Business Administration

“Even getting a partial or half scholarship doesn’t come close to paying for your education. If you are going full time, you will create a small mountain of debt. Make sure you have a job out of graduate school that will allow you to pay that off as soon as possible.” –Bobby S. ’08, Master of Business Administration, George Washington University

“Loan consolidation and financial management.” –Anonymous, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Maryland College Park

“What jobs for engineers are like if they have a MS versus a PhD.” –Chad H. ’12, Master of Science, MIT

“It is more about the connections you make than the degree.” –Abigail H. ’07, Master of Science, International University in Geneva

“Graduate study depends a lot upon self-motivation. In undergraduate school, you went to class and wrote papers or did assigned problem sets outside of class. In graduate school, you dictate your own schedule and are expected to complete research and keep momentum in your project all while being a TA and completing your own coursework. It’s definitely possible, but it just takes a little while to adjust if you’re not used to working in such an unstructured environment.” –Emily W. ’10, Master of Science, University of Delaware/Winterthur Museum

“Take your GREs or GMATs right after college—you will absolutely regret waiting.” –Leah O. ’09, Master of Business Administration, Boston University

“That legal writing is nothing like writing for your college classes. Analysis is more focused and less academic.” –Anonymous, Juris Doctorate, University at Buffalo Law School

“Factor in cost of living to where you are going to school.” –Bobby S. ’08, Master of Business Administration, George Washington University

“Graduate school abroad is cheaper, shorter, and better than graduate school in the United States.” –Abigail H. ’07, International University in Geneva

“Don’t be fooled by fancy or big name schools. Shop around and explore what state schools have to offer. If you’re specializing in a field that has state-specific licenses, consider what areas of the country you are likely to be in after you graduate.” –Megan H. ’09, Masters of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis

“There are expectations, even of graduate students, that are well above those of undergrads and I wasn’t ready for that change. There is a lot more “Do this on your own,” that professors assume you know about and don’t always say explicitly. It’s a different attitude that can be tough to get used to it you aren’t ready for it.” –Matt A. ’16, Engineering

“I wish I had known how small the world of science is. All of our professors are very connected.” –Amy E. ’16, Science/Research

“Before applying, I wish I had compiled better information of where I was looking geographically, within the field, and to what level of school. Reminiscent of applying to college, it can be difficult to assess where you should apply based on GPA, test scores, and the intangibles. The latter category can be even harder to assess after four years of college, as applicants have a wide array of experiences and resume items.” –Dominick S. ’16, Law

“Teaching is hard, and from what I hear, a lot of schools expect graduate students to start teaching with no training or support. I wish I had known earlier that I was not alone in feeling like I had no idea how to teach a class, and that I judged myself way more harshly than my students did.” –Katherine V. ’15

“Be aware that scholarships and grants for funding graduate/professional school will become rarer as you keep going, so be prepared for loans and more budgeting/ juggling school and work to make ends meet.” –Stephanie S. ’16, Military

“I could have been clearer about my career goals; it is a trade-off between having a target and constantly exploring new frontiers of meaningful actions. It becomes crucial to know what you want, and be able to keep the composure and carry on with it.” –Robin W. ’14

“If you stay in Rochester, make sure to pay attention to the balance you strike between all your old campus habits and the new opportunities available to you. Stay in touch with your old friends and mentors, but make sure to make new contacts as well who may become treasured friends and invaluable resources to you.” –Maya K. ’16

“Don’t be intimidated! Graduate school is different from undergraduate life in many ways. The peers you look up to as an undergraduate are usually seniors who are just getting a sense of what the field looks like. However, as a graduate student, the senior graduate students and post-docs you will work with have been working in your field for about twice as long as you, and will seem almost unattainable, knowledgeable, and savvy. Relax, pace yourself, and realize some things – like building expertise – simply take time!” –Steven T. ’16, Science/Research

Other Post-Graduation Opportunities

“Do something that calls you. It has to be something that comes from within. Do what you love, not what other people want you to do. Believe.” –Rory-Stefan A. ’15, Higher Education

“If you have a technical background, keep in mind that through alternative opportunities, like Teach for America or Peace Corps, your technical knowledge may slowly disappear from lack of practice and interaction with the material. It’s better to stick with opportunities that are still in the same field as your major so you can use that information while it’s still fresh in your mind, rather than have to re-learn it when you enter the workforce again.” –Michaela K. ’15, Master of Science, Johns Hopkins University

“Travel abroad! I travel every year for three weeks to different countries. It’s the best life experience.” –Isabella T.V. ’14, Master of Business Administration, University of Rochester

“Understand the regulations and guidelines of the organization. For example, AmeriCorps follows certain guidelines because it is federally funded. Decide if those guidelines are deal breakers for you.” –Anansa B. ’15

“I am currently serving a term with AmeriCorps VISTA. This is a great option for anyone who wants to take a year of service for a great cause. It’s great work and you feel like you’re actually making a change. In addition, you receive a ton of benefits and an added resume booster.” –Kendra H. ’14, Master of Public Health, Undecided

“Above all, follow your heart. Whether it is entering the workforce, applying to graduate programs, or other programs like AmeriCorps and Teach for America, you can do the most good when you’re doing something you’re passionate about. Through your passion, you can inspire others to do the best they can do.” –Morgan P. ’15, Master of Business Administration, University of Massachusetts Amherst

“It is the hardest job you will ever do, but also the most rewarding!” –Alesa Y. ’15, Master of Arts, Undecided

“KEY at U of R was one of the best year-long experiences I could have asked for.” –Ben W. ’15, Doctor of Medicine, Wright State University

“For the Fulbright Program, meet with the Fellowships Office early and often. Show your application materials to as many people as possible so you have many perspectives to incorporate into your essays. Pursue a fellowship or research project that is genuinely aligned to your interests. If you pursue one merely because “it looks good,” it will probably come out in the interview or your application.” –Lauren K. ’15, Government

“Any opportunity that lets you travel to a lot of different places is a great opportunity. I have been lucky enough to travel to over a dozen countries around the world and it has had a significant impact on how I approach life and my work.” –David L. ’09

“Do what you want to do, not what society thinks you should do. A master’s degree can happen any day.” –Sudesna G. ’07

“I was a Teach For America (TFA) corps member in 2007 and stayed in education through 2014. TFA is a great starting point for a career, but I encourage you to differentiate yourself by staying longer than the two-year commitment.” –Alexander P. ’07

“I’m serving in AmeriCorps VISTA through the Rochester Youth Year program out of the Rochester Center for Community Leadership (RCCL). My advice is to choose something because you’re passionate about the cause. Going into something without being prepared to fully invest is fair to no one.” –Matias P. ’14

“Do it. Do whatever you want. Don’t listen to other people who say you have to get a job or go to grad school or do this, that, or the other thing. You get one life, one decade that is your twenties, do that thing you always wanted to do but never could because some- one told you that you HAD to go to school and get a job and all that ‘important’ stuff. You know what it is. Just do it.” –Patrick A. ’14

“Teach for America has been an incredible opportunity for me to start a career in education. My school struggles greatly to find qualified science teachers so I feel extremely valued. Teach for America also serves as a platform for me to think about critical issues in education. This is a very important time with the implementation of the Common Core, so I feel extremely challenged and fulfilled investing my energy in this field.” –Emily H. ’12

“Think about ways you can improve professionally in addition to what you are learning or gaining through your primary endeavor or employment. It might be a significant volunteer role that offers more leadership than you can get through work, or it might be an online educational program that teaches you a new skill. Challenge yourself.” –Dan L. ’07

“I didn’t, but you have 30+ years to work, so taking 1-2 years to do Teach For America or travel is an awesome idea and does not detract from your work that much. Experiences will allow you to connect with people in your future.” –Chad H. ’12

“My first year out of college, I did a program through the government of Spain, working as a part-time English assistant in classrooms. (I know the government of France also offers these jobs.) I would recommend this position. It was a great experience and opportunity to live abroad for eight months. However, the pay is low, so it would really help to have savings before starting this position.” –Kate W. ’07

“Don’t do it to build your resume, do it because you want to learn, grow, or better the world.” –Anonymous

“Always be open to new experiences. Regardless of whether you hate it or love it, you will gain tools for your next job/opportunity.” –Angie S. ’11

“Everything you do is useful. Each experience you have, especially if it is different from what you’ve done in the past, will give you a new perspective on who you are and what is important to you, and will contribute to a stronger sense of what to do next. It’s okay to step off the treadmill and deviate from your straight and narrow path. From personal experience with Teach for America, followed by research at the NIH, time is measured not so much by filling a ‘gap’ as it is about moving forward in your adult life, cultivating new and old passions, no matter how circuitous a route it may seem you’re taking.” –Brandon P. ’12

“It is great to be able to work for a better world; at the same time, never use it as an excuse and delay your actions.” –Robin W. ’14

“I would say to keep an open mind. Just because someone told you that you have to do X, Y, Z to reach your educational goal does not mean that’s the only way to do it. Many paths lead to the same result, so it’s really about the journey: did you grow and learn? Can you apply that experience to what you do in the future? And above all, know that plans change, so be okay with it. It all works out in the end, if you don’t give up on yourself and do what you know is right.” –Stephanie S. ’16, Military

“I am currently thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, almost 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. This has been a dream of mine since I was 10 years old. I’m also hoping to attend medical school and am currently working on applications from the trail. My advice to undergrads: If there’s something you really want to do, even if it’s unrelated to your career goals, do it! Although it’s not directly related to medicine, I’ve learned so much by talking with other people on the trail. Make the most out of the time after graduation by doing something you’re passionate about!” –Gina D. ’16

“There are fellowships out there specifically for young professionals. Take advantage of them, provided that they are the right fit for you and your goals, while you are still in the target age range. Jobs come and go, but these experiences are often once in a lifetime, literally and figuratively.” –Alysha A. ’15